The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft, currently holding the 16th pick. While the team has bolstered its defensive line and edge positions through free agency, it seems unlikely they will prioritize safety early in the draft. With Budda Baker signed through 2027 and promising prospects like Taylor-Demerson, the Cardinals may focus on other areas.

Draft Wire's latest rankings highlight the top five safety prospects: Malaki Starks from Georgia and Nick Emmanwori from South Carolina are projected to be first-round picks, although Starks' recent combine performance has raised concerns about a potential drop. Xavier Watts is also a name to watch as a solid second-round option, while Kevin Winston Jr. might land on Day 2. Lathan Ransom is seen as a box safety, likely to be drafted early on Day 3.

The San Francisco 49ers made significant moves during the first week of NFL free agency, shaking up their roster as they head into the 2024 season. Notably, wide receiver Deebo Samuel was traded to the Washington Commanders for a fifth-round draft pick, a bold move as the team looks to reshuffle its offensive weapons.

On the other hand, running back Jordan Mason received a second-round restricted tender before being traded to the Minnesota Vikings alongside a sixth-round pick. The 49ers also faced notable losses, with defensive lineman Javon Hargrave signing with the Vikings, cornerback Charvarius Ward heading to the Colts, and linebacker Dre Greenlaw joining the Broncos. Furthermore, several free agents departed, including quarterbacks Josh Dobbs and Brandon Allen, both finding new homes in New England and Tennessee, respectively.

Yet, not all news was loss; the 49ers managed to acquire several free agents, including quarterback Mac Jones and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson, aiming to strengthen their depth chart. As the dust settles on this volatile free agency period, the 49ers are clearly striving to maintain competitiveness in their division.

The Arizona Cardinals are gearing up for the upcoming season with a reshaped roster after a busy free agency period. Key returning players include guard Evan Brown and receiver Zay Jones, who will help maintain continuity. The Cardinals have also added significant talent in Josh Sweat, Akeem Davis-Gaither, and Dalvin Tomlinson, enhancing both their offensive and defensive lines.

Projected starters for the offense feature Kyler Murray at quarterback and James Conner leading the ground game, with Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson as primary targets. The offensive line will see Paris Johnson taking the left tackle position alongside Evan Brown, while Hjalte Froholdt will handle center duties.

On defense, the line is bolstered by Justin Jones, Dalvin Tomlinson, and Darius Robinson, while Josh Sweat and Zaven Collins are expected to excel in the linebacker roles. The secondary will be key, with Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson anchoring the safety positions. Special teams will see Blake Gillikin as punter and Chad Ryland as kicker, with Greg Dortch returning kicks. Overall, the Cardinals' proactive approach in free agency positions them well for the upcoming challenges.

The Arizona Cardinals are gaining national attention, with several players recognized in Pro Football Focus's annual 101 players list for their strong performances in the 2024 season. Running back James Conner ranked #81, cornerback Garrett Williams came in at #73, while tight end Trey McBride solidified his place as a top-50 player at #42, trailing only stars Brock Bowers and George Kittle.

However, one significant player missed the cut: safety Budda Baker. Despite a stellar season, marked by a second-place finish in total tackles (164) and a solid PFF grade of 77.8, he was overlooked for recognition alongside notable safeties such as Jessie Bates III and Derwin James. Baker’s impressive play and his recent three-year, $54 million contract extension underscore his importance to the Cardinals, especially as a defensive leader.

The Arizona Cardinals' offseason priorities center around bolstering the front seven, with a notable focus on edge rushers and interior defensive linemen, while also addressing the need for versatile offensive linemen. With Budda Baker and Jalen Thompson in the safety positions, the discussion may seem to overlook safety as a need, but Georgia's Malaki Starks emerges as a compelling candidate for the 2025 NFL Draft. His unique skill set and playmaking ability could make him a valuable asset for the Cardinals' defense.

Starks, a five-star recruit, has made a name for himself with exceptional performances during his collegiate career, earning accolades such as First-Team All-American. While safety doesn't seem like an immediate need for the Cardinals, Starks' versatility makes him an ideal candidate to fill various roles within the secondary. Adding him could not only enhance the defensive depth but also provide a long-term solution alongside Baker and Thompson.